Sparkle And Shine In 2009: What To Wear This Holiday Season

Jacquleine Zenn

Every November, fashion magazines and bloggers start talking about what to wear to holiday parties, and their suggestions are often quite similar. Sparkling jewels, jewel-toned satins, and rich velvets all make their annual appearance, along with a few key trends that are essentially a shinier, holiday-hued version of what is already in stores. This is not one of those articles.

My personal philosophy on dressing for special occasions is to simply wear something that makes you smile, whether that is a slinky leopard print pencil skirt or a fifties inspired cardigan with pearl buttons. Therefore, I propose that for this holiday season, we focus less on what is "in style" and more on what makes us happy every time we look at it. And of course, we have to consider the type of events we are attending - a Herve Leger bandage dress might not fly at a conservative office party. Here's a few suggestions:

For the Diva: If you want to turn heads (literally), nothing is better than a hot dress in a bold color that looks stunning both coming and going. This Rebecca Minkoff frock certainly fits the bill - just add a pair of glittering earrings, a statement cuff, or a cocktail ring and you're good to go.

For the Ingenue: There is a fine line between perfectly sweet and overly saccharine, and the Kelsi Dagger Rosabella boot walks it perfectly. Try them with a full skirt and a fitted sweater for maximum effect, and don't forget your pearls!

For the Tomboy: This winter's tuxedo vests and jackets are a natural choice if you're looking to borrow something from the boys. Try this J.Crew vest with a silky top and wide leg pants; as an added bonus, it would also looking amazing with a tee and jeans for daytime.

For the Professional: Just because you're attending a work event doesn't mean you have to don the equivalent of business formal. Try something unexpected but still office-appropriate, like this Helmut Lang shift. The painterly print is fresh and creative, and pairing with pewter or bronze metallic accessories would dress it up for evening.

For the Hostess: Hosting a party requires an ensemble that is both festive enough for the event, yet comfortable enough to move easily in, so you need something simple but striking, like this elegantly draped Alexander Wang dress. It makes a statement without making a fuss. The holiday season is all about having fun, so start by having fun with your look!

1. Rebecca Minkoff Scoop Neck Pleated Dress $450
2. Kelsi Dagger Rosabella Bootie $200
3. J. Crew Wool Tuxedo Vest $148
4. Helmut Lang Printed Silk-Blend Dress $520
5. Alexander Wang Gunmetal Jersey Dress with Slinky Combo $415

Image Layout: La Tonya Williams